Feeling stuck in the same depressive cycle despite trying multiple medications can be discouraging. TMS therapy offers a scientifically validated, non-invasive option to mental health that targets mood-related brain pathways when traditional antidepressants have not worked. But what makes a good candidate for NeuroStar TMS Therapy in Scottsdale? At The Schulte Institute, our experienced team provides individualized evaluations to determine whether this advanced approach is right for you.
Ideal candidates for NeuroStar TMS therapy are those in Scottsdale who are diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and have not found adequate relief from medication or psychotherapy. NeuroStar uses focused magnetic pulses to activate areas of the brain linked to mood regulation, helping restore balanced activity without systemic side effects (George & Post, 2011). Because the treatment is not a drug, it does not cause weight gain, drowsiness, or sexual side effects that often accompany antidepressant use (Carpenter et al., 2012).
If you are 18 years of age and have tried at least two antidepressant medications without meaningful improvement and experience side effects that make continued medication use difficult, you may prefer this non-invasive, outpatient therapy instead. Each patient’s path is unique, so our team conducts a detailed consultation before recommending NeuroStar TMS Therapy.
At our Scottsdale clinic, safety is a top priority during candidacy assessment for NeuroStar TMS. Before beginning NeuroStar Advanced Therapy, your provider will review your medical history, including any:
Most people tolerate TMS well, but certain implants, such as pacemakers or cochlear implants, may make the procedure unsafe (NeuroStar, 2023).
The consultation also covers practical factors such as your schedule and treatment expectations. A typical NeuroStar plan involves five sessions per week for seven weeks, each lasting between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the prescription dose determined at the initial mapping with the provider. You can return to normal activities immediately afterward, making it a convenient choice for busy individuals.
Unlike medication, which affects the entire body, NeuroStar TMS therapy precisely targets brain circuits involved in mood. Large-scale data show significant benefits, with 83% of patients experiencing symptom relief (Sackeim et al., 2020). These real-world results demonstrate the therapy’s value as a next-line treatment for depression that persists despite medications.
At The Schulte Institute in Scottsdale, every NeuroStar TMS plan begins with a clear, evidence-based evaluation for your candidacy. Dr. Schulte and his team take time to discuss previous treatments, current symptoms, and goals for recovery. This ensures your NeuroStar TMS therapy plan fits both your clinical needs and lifestyle preferences.
Call Us to Discuss Candidacy for NeuroStar TMS Therapy in Scottsdale
If you have not found lasting relief through medication alone, NeuroStar TMS therapy in Scottsdale may help restore your quality of life. Contact The Schulte Institute today to schedule a consultation and learn whether you are a candidate for this FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment.
References
Adult Indications for Use
The NeuroStar Advanced Therapy System is indicated for the treatment of depressive episodes and for decreasing anxiety symptoms for those who may exhibit comorbid anxiety symptoms in adult patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and who failed to achieve satisfactory improvement from previous antidepressant medication treatment in the current episode.
The NeuroStar Advanced Therapy System is intended to be used as an adjunct for the treatment of adult patients suffering from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Adolescent Indications for Use
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is indicated as an adjunct for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adolescent patients (15-21).
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is only available by prescription. A doctor can help decide if NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is right for you. Patients’ results may vary.
Important Safety Information
The most common side effect is pain or discomfort at or near the treatment site. These events are transient; they occur during the TMS treatment course and do not occur for most patients after the first week of treatment. There is a rare risk of seizure associated with the use of TMS therapy (<0.1% per patient).
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy should not be used with patients who have non-removable conductive metal in or near the head. NeuroStar Advanced Therapy has not been studied in patients who have not received prior antidepressant treatment.
